Correct option is B
B, C, A only
Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, a social reformer, economist, and the principal architect of the Indian Constitution, was a strong critic of the caste system and advocated for social equality and justice. His theoretical and philosophical insights included the following:
Annihilation of Caste (B) –
- Ambedkar’s famous book "Annihilation of Caste" (1936) was a strong critique of the Hindu caste system and social hierarchy.
- He argued that caste-based discrimination was a major barrier to social progress.
- He advocated for breaking caste barriers and promoting equality.
Encouraging the Practice of Inter-Caste Marriages (C) –
- Ambedkar believed that inter-caste marriages were essential to dismantling caste-based discrimination.
- In his speech “Annihilation of Caste”, he suggested that breaking endogamy (marrying within the caste) was key to ending caste hierarchies.
- The Hindu Code Bill, drafted by Ambedkar, included provisions for inter-caste marriage rights.
Hindu Social Order with the Place of Individual (A) –
- Ambedkar analyzed the Hindu social order and how it assigned individuals specific roles based on caste.
- His work “The Hindu Social Order: Its Essential Features” (1943) explored how caste dictated a person’s occupation, rights, and social status.
- He critiqued the rigidity of this system and emphasized the importance of individual rights over caste-based roles.
Thus, options B, C, and A are correct.
Information Booster:
- Ambedkar converted to Buddhism in 1956 and inspired the Dalit Buddhist movement.
- He was a strong advocate of reservation policies for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) to ensure social justice.
- He rejected the Manusmriti as it promoted caste-based inequalities.
- His efforts led to the Hindu Code Bill, which modernized Hindu marriage and inheritance laws.
- Ambedkar played a significant role in ensuring fundamental rights and social equality in the Indian Constitution.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
D. Accepting the practice of priesthood by a single caste – Incorrect
- Ambedkar opposed the monopoly of priesthood by a single caste.
- He supported the idea that anyone, regardless of caste, should have the right to become a priest.
E. Accepting the legitimacy of sacred texts of the Hindus – Incorrect
- Ambedkar strongly rejected Hindu sacred texts that justified caste discrimination.
- In his speech “The Annihilation of Caste”, he criticized religious texts that upheld social hierarchy.